Chelsea did not sign any major first-team players on deadline day, but there was notable movement among their academy players.
Winger Ato Ampah transferred to Stoke City in a deal worth seven figures, while Yahya Idrissi moved to AC Milan.
The biggest surprise came from one of their under-18 players, who joined Spurs.
This is what you need to know about Joel Vidal-Philbert’s unexpected switch to Tottenham.
Photo by Antonio Masiello – The FA/The FA via Getty Images
Chelsea’s academy signed Joel Vidal-Philbert from West Ham when he was 14 during the 2023/24 season.
The right winger played five matches for Chelsea’s under-18s in the U18 Premier League, scoring once.
However, chances were limited since Ibrahim Rabbaj was ahead of him in the lineup.
Chelsea issued a statement about Vidal-Philbert’s transfer, saying: “We thank Joel for his efforts at the club and wish him well as he moves forward in his career.”
The player expressed his excitement on Instagram after joining Spurs, saying: “Happy to be at this wonderful club.”
He has also played for England at under-16 level, indicating he has potential in the sport.
Player movements from Chelsea’s academy during the January window
In the January transfer window, seven academy players left Chelsea, either permanently or on loan. The full list of these departures is included below:
Moves for Ampah and Leo Castledine are expected to help Chelsea comply with the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).
Frankie Runham is also likely to leave the club permanently soon.
Both Yahya Idrissi and Vidal-Philbert struggled to secure regular spots in Chelsea’s U18 starting lineup before their transfers.